When you encounter someone who is suicidal, it is important to take the situation seriously and provide appropriate help. Here are some steps you can take to help someone with suicidal tendencies:
1) Engage in frank and empathetic conversations: Approach such a person with a sympathetic and non-judgmental attitude. Let them know you care and are there to listen to their thoughts and feelings. Encourage them to be open about their ideas and this requires you to be a good listener.
2) Ask direct questions: Gently ask if they are having suicidal thoughts or plans. It’s a common misconception that asking about suicide encourages suicidal thoughts, when in fact discussing it openly can provide relief and hope for help.
3) Stay with them: If they immediately express suicidal or self-harming thoughts, don’t leave them alone. Stay with them or make sure someone stays with them until professional help arrives.
4) Encourage professional help: Suicidal thoughts are a sign of a deep emotional struggle that often requires professional intervention. Encourage the person to seek help from a mental health professional, a therapist. Help them find resources and schedule an appointment if they want.
5) Make access to suicide sources impossible: If you know of specific means (eg, firearms or poisons) that someone could use to harm themselves, try to make sure they are not easily accessible. . Including a trusted family member or friend can make this goal more easily achieved.
6) Support System: Encourage the person to reach out to friends and family for emotional support and take the initiative if possible. Rebuilding trust in relationships can change the outlook of such individuals.
7) Be patient: Getting over suicidal thoughts can be a long and difficult process. Continue to offer your help, even if the person’s progress is slow or they initially resist help.
8) Self Awareness: Become more aware of suicide and its warning signs and risk factors. By understanding it better, you can help someone more effectively.
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